Wedding Toasts

A wedding toast is the act of honouring someone or something and others toast their agreement by joining in.

It is the act of raising a glass and drinking in honour of, or to, the health of a person or thing.

It is a proposal to drink to someone or something, or a speech given before the taking of such a drink.

So are you clear on the difference between a wedding toast and wedding speech?

Right – well at a traditional wedding the father of the bride, the groom and the best man are all expected to deliver a speech. This means putting together a few words to form a speech that lasts anything from 3-4 minutes up to a maximum of 8-10 minutes. The speech concludes with a toast in the form of best wishes and congratulations to the newly weds.

The maid of honour, bride, special friends or other relatives may also wish to say a few words. They are not obliged to give a speech but can simply say a few words offering their blessing or personal good wishes.

A typical toast at a wedding will start with something like:
Please be upstanding…
Charge your glasses…
Everyone please stand and raise your glasses…
Ladies and gentleman please join me in a toast to...

Common themes are good luck, good health, health, wealth and happiness. You can create your own unique tribute to the happy couple or choose from a wealth of old favourites or quotes to suit your special occasion.

Whatever you decide to do make sure you prepare. Weddings are not a time to “wing it”. This is a special day that will be remembered by many so make sure you add to the moment!

Your toast should focus on the happy couple and come from the heart. It can be funny, moving or serious but whatever you say it must be sincere. It can be as simple as a few words, a rhyme, poem, song lyrics or reading. To deliver yours with confidence take a look at these tips.

Wedding Poems and Readings

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